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Ecuador's National Assembly Approves Gang-Fighting Reforms

Introduction

Ecuador's National Assembly has approved a significant reform aimed at granting the government enhanced legal powers to combat armed groups and dismantle the drug-trafficking networks that support these criminal enterprises.

Context

The reform bill garnered support from 84 of the 141 lawmakers present, with 46 voting against it, 10 abstaining, and one casting a blank vote. President Daniel Noboa, who began his four-year term last month at the age of 37, had previously declared an "internal armed conflict" against criminal gangs in January 2024, shortly after his inauguration.

Developments

Since the start of the campaign against gangs, Noboa has deployed military personnel alongside police forces, significantly increasing the presence of security personnel. He has also implemented stricter prison sentences for drug-related offenses and sought collaboration with other nations for intelligence sharing and resource support.

The newly approved legal framework empowers Noboa to redirect resources towards fighting crime effectively. He is granted the authority to pardon police and military personnel involved in security operations, with measures in place that allow officers under criminal investigation to avoid pre-trial detention while still undergoing evaluations every six months.

The reform includes harsh penalties of up to 30 years for fuel theft, a crime that has increasingly burdened the oil industry, along with illegal mining, which is a major funding source for criminal gangs. Additionally, security forces now have the capability to directly seize assets linked to these criminal groups, streamlining the process compared to the often lengthy previous judicial procedures.

Individuals who lead, belong to, or assist these groups face prison sentences of up to 30 years. Moreover, economic incentives are included for sectors adversely affected by the violence, addressing the broader impact on society.

Conclusion

These reforms mark a significant escalation in Ecuador's approach to tackling the rising threat of organized crime, providing the government with the necessary tools to confront these challenges head-on.